Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey

Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey

First Flight: March 19, 1989

The V‑22 Osprey combines the vertical‑lift capabilities of a helicopter and the high‑speed characteristics of a turboprop airplane. Short takeoff limit weight is 55,000 lbs.; VTO limited at 46,950 lbs. External sling load is 15,000 pounds. The cabin can take up to 20,000 pounds for short missions.

This exhibit aircraft is the third of six prototypes. It was primarily designed for the Marine Corps Amphibious Assault Mission  with 552 aircraft, but there were an additional 50 HV‑22A aircraft planned by the Navy for combat search and rescue and other missions. In addition, the U.S. Air Force required 55 aircraft for long-range special operations.

The aircraft accommodates 24 troops. As a troop transport the V‑22 has an 1,100 Nmi unrefueled range. With auxiliary fuel tanks the unrefueled range is up to 2,100 Nmi. There is provision for in‑flight refueling.­

In order to permit Naval shipboard operation, the blades fold back over the wing (helicopter mode) and the wing swivels in‑line with the fuselage for compact stowage.

Aircraft Specifications  
Rotor Diameter 38 ft
Fuselage Length 57 ft 4 in
Maximum Speed 363 mph
Cruise Speed 317 mph
Height 21 ft 9 in
Empty Weight 33,140 lbs
Gross Weight 60,500 lbs
Engine 2 – 6,000 shp Allison T 406 AD400
Acquisition Source National Museum of the Marine Corps Loan

This aircraft is available for “adoption” in the Museum’s Adopt-a-Copter program.

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